Broken PC

LadFromLimerick

Hi all,
Hope this is the correct forum for my query. I have a Dell desktop (less than 2 years old) and when I tried to switch it on the other day I got zero response. Actually thought it was a power cut first but then noticed the printer and monitor were working ok. Obviously checked that the power cable was connected properly and replaced the fuse on the plug but still nothing.
Any idea what might have caused this? Could it be a virus or something?
Would appreciate any help as I am more or less computer illiterate!
Thanks.

Rosedale6

So you had a power cut and after your PC tower didnt work only CRT and printer. Was it working fine before this power cut happen? Sometimes if you have a power cut it can bring a surge of electric and that could damage the PC.

Biggins

Is there any lights at all coming on?
Can you hear the harddrive spindles inside start to spin when you turn on?
Was there a power cut?
Was there lightening in the area?
Did the trip switches (on main fuseboard) throw to "off" at any stage?

If it did get a surge of sudden power at some stage, more than likely either the power unit or the CPU is dead.
One or the other is going to have to be replaced. The RAM (memory chips) will also have to be tested to see if they survived.
The harddrive will have to be tested too in case that was wiped by a surge/spike in power.

- This is why for the sake of twenty euro, surge protect sockets should be bought for laptops/pc's.
Not to have one is crazy. Its an honest truth. It can save you hundreds, if not thousands.

LadFromLimerick

Yeah there was a power cut while I was away and it hasn't worked since I got back. It was definitely turned off while I was away and I could have sworn I had unplugged it too.
There is zero response when I turn it on now, no lights or sounds or movement from it, it's as if the thing is not even plugged in.

Biggins

I'm sorry to say then that its more than likely got a surge.

This is why its worth while phyically plugging out items, especially if your going away for any period of lenghty time.
Plug out FULLY during electrical storms also, not just switch off.

---

Back to the problem.

(is there ANY chance at all, someone could have been at your system while you were away?)

I'm afraid its back to the shop/repair man this one will have to go.
There is no other way about it. Try to sound out an honest one, not just the first one you hear of. Picking a second or third "fixer" can save you some serious money.
Bring a friend who is somewhat pc savy too when your dropping it in.

Rosedale6

Like what Biggins said its best to take it to a PC repair shop to fix it. One component could be damaged or a few depending on the volts your PC took. If you know how to use a multimeter you can find this information out yourself, but if you,ve not got a clue its best to leave it to the experts.

unnameduser

I am based in Limerick and I can take a look at that machine if you wish. No fix no fee! PM if you are interested.